LG NOVA
The Magic Behind the Motivation
KENZIE DYE TRACY A . TOLER PHOTOGRAPHY
For far too long , West Virginia has had to fight negative stereotypes and prove itself as a place worth investing in . Fortunately , this endless hard work has not gone unnoticed by companies like LG Electronics .
“ West Virginia has been extremely forward-thinking and is actively working to transform the state by creating a business-friendly environment , investing in digital technology , providing incentives and an environment that attracts high-skilled workers and partnering with leading companies to solve some of the challenges within the state ,” says Joshua Di Frances , head of incubation and venture building for LG NOVA and LG Electronics .
In January 2024 , Governor Jim Justice announced that the state of West Virginia and LG Electronics would be launching a strategic initiative to grow new business ventures in the Mountain State and advance the development of technologies for renewable energy , health care and industries of the future .
“ When we began speaking with West Virginia leaders last year , I felt inspired by the commitment of the key stakeholders to bettering the state ,” says Di Frances . “ West Virginia was not only looking to create jobs , but the folks we worked with were dedicated to solving the key health care and energy infrastructure challenges within the state , which very much aligned with our areas of focus .”
The innovation model that comprises this initiative is new for both West Virginia and LG NOVA .
“ LG is new to working with states in this fashion . In the past , we ’ ve
“ West Virginia has been extremely forward-thinking and is actively working to transform the state .”
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